Tagliatelle(For An Army)
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish with rich tomato sauce, melted cheeses, and fresh vegetables, perfect for feeding a large gathering or family feast.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni in boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large turkey pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, red wine, and sliced zucchini; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan, shredded Mozzarella, chopped basil, and sliced black olives.
- Mix the cooked rigatoni into the sauce, ensuring it is well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian sausage or ground beef to the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, mushrooms can be a great substitute for the meat. Feel free to swap out the rigatoni for penne or even spaghetti if desired. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano could enhance the flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for authentic Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully. For an Italian twist, consider pairing it with Authentic Italian Wedding Sweets for dessert or browse more vegetarian recipes to round out your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tagliatelle(For An Army) contains roughly 139 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need about 3-4 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the sauce. Fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables or mix in diced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference for the best results.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the rigatoni a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine and reheat them on the stove for a quick and convenient meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).